In this cold time of the year, it is common for more viral agents to circulate, such as Rhinovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Metapneumovirus, Influenza, Parainfluenza, sars-cov2, among others. Since there are no miracle treatments for prevention, here are some tips on good habits that can help both children and families:
Dress your child with layers: this saves energy expenditure in maintaining body temperature.
Hydrate: in addition to being essential for the proper functioning of the body, it helps to fluidize secretions, allowing them to be expelled more easily. Carefully instilling saline into the nostrils, using an appropriate volume for each age group, is also important.
Adequate and balanced nutrition: this recommendation is essential for your children to have all the nutritional components, such as minerals and vitamins that with an anti-oxidant role will help in the prevention of diseases.
Adequate amount of sleep: essential for proper immune functioning, stress reduction, greater concentration, among other benefits. The National Sleep Foundations recommend that children between the ages of 6 and 13 get between 9 and 11 hours of sleep per day.
Rest and hygiene habits: sick children with fever must stay at home, resting. Children with mild symptoms: don’t forget to wear masks to protect others. Hygiene habits should not be forgotten, like hand washing and the use of gel alcohol.
Written by Dr. Ricardo Morando @dr.ricardomorandopediatria – Pediatrician and father of students Gabriela and Guilherme from Elementary School.
